Autistic children often require a multi-faceted approach to therapy. As a result, Lighthouse Autism Center sought to refine our approach by offering speech therapy in conjunction with ABA therapy.

Speech Therapy at Lighthouse Autism Center

Autistic children often require a multi-faceted approach to therapy. Typically, a child will need a combination of therapies, including ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc. As a result, Lighthouse Autism Center sought to refine our approach to therapy by offering speech therapy in conjunction with ABA therapy.

What is speech therapy for autism?

Speech therapy is a crucial intervention that aids autistic children in improving their communication skills. Individuals with autism often face challenges in verbal and non-verbal communication, which speech therapy seeks to address. Speech therapy is an essential autism resource that focuses on enhancing an autistic child’s abilities to express and comprehend both verbal and non-verbal language. 

Furthermore, speech therapy can assist autistic children in developing speech pragmatics, which refers to the appropriate use of language in social situations. This includes understanding non-literal language, like sarcasm and irony, and using appropriate tone and intonation during interactions. Autistic children often struggle with social cues and may have difficulty understanding and expressing emotions effectively, making this an essential skill.

The connection between autism and speech therapy is vital as it can significantly improve the quality of life for autistic children, enhancing their social interactions and fostering independence. It is beneficial not only to autistic individuals but also to their families and communities, helping to foster healthy communication and providing caregivers with the tools and strategies needed to make daily interactions easier and more enjoyable.

How speech therapy supports ABA therapy

Speech therapy, which focuses on developing language and communication skills, complements ABA therapy, which uses positive reinforcement to encourage behavior changes. These therapies support and enhance the overall development of children with autism, specifically when practiced in conjunction. Consistent reinforcement in different contexts helps children generalize their communication skills beyond the therapy room into real-world settings. The collaboration can, therefore, provide a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach.

The challenge of multiple therapy requirements

Before moving to Lighthouse Autism Center, many families found themselves on a six- to eight-month waiting list for autism spectrum speech therapy services while their child was receiving ABA therapy. When they finally gained access to speech services, parents had to navigate the logistical challenge of transporting their child to multiple appointments throughout the week. Not only is this incredibly demanding on families, but it also results in children missing out on time they could have spent in ABA therapy.

The Lighthouse Autism Center Difference

As a center founded by parents, for parents, Lighthouse Autism Center decided to integrate speech therapy into our services by creating Lighthouse Fusion ABA therapy—an innovative approach to ABA speech therapy that combines the best practices of each modality into a unique clinical model that delivers improved outcomes for autistic children. It serves as a valuable autism tool for parents by creating a less stressful, more efficient approach while providing autistic children in need of autism speech therapy with the tools they need to reach their fullest potential.

Does your child have ABA and speech therapy needs?

The grocery store can be an overwhelming experience for autistic children. Here are tips for shopping with autistic children in overstimulating environments.

Autism-Friendly Shopping Tips for Overstimulating Environments

Everyday shopping, such as in a grocery store, might seem like a pretty straightforward experience to most, but for autistic children, it can be seriously overwhelming. Grocery stores are prime candidates for sensory overload, with bright lights, music, people, shopping carts, vegetable misters, and beeping registers all adding to what might already be a stressful outing. 

The way you approach everyday shopping can make a world of difference for you and your child. It does require some preparation, but it goes a long way to relieve undue stress. Of course, it is important to learn the signs of overstimulation with autism so that you can react in the right way, but by preparing yourself and your child for everyday shopping experiences, you will hopefully prevent any overstimulation from the start. 

Here are some helpful tips for sensory overload and how to avoid it when shopping. 

1. Be Proactive: Think About Your Child’s Sensory Experiences

It’s better to anticipate potential triggers than to hope for the best. Think about the elements that could cause your child distress. If you identify and understand these triggers, you can either help your child avoid them or create a plan to manage the situations that could lead to sensory overload. By thinking ahead, you can discover how to avoid sensory overload. Are the noises an issue? Bring headphones. Do they like touching everyone? Bring fidgets in the store with you.  

2. Stay Organized

You can start with a written schedule and a visual checklist for your child to follow along with. If you are organized, the shopping trip can proceed much more smoothly. While you might enjoy a trip to the mall and browsing for hours, limiting your time in the shops and getting only what you came for will help keep your child from feeling overwhelmed. Ensure that you write down what you need and get to those things and out of the store as quickly as you can. Think about going in order of the isles in a store you know and ensuring you aren’t running around the store.  

3. Make Multiple Shorter Tips to the Shops

If you’ve got a huge list of things to buy, it might be best to do it in little bits rather than in one go. So, instead of doing one big monthly shop, perhaps split it into weekly visits. This makes each shopping experience shorter and also gets your child used to visiting the grocery store and learning an important life skill that they will need in the future. 

4. Look for a Quiet Zone 

It’s beneficial to know how to deal with overstimulation in autism while shopping. For instance, find a quiet zone so that your child can catch a breather from the busy areas. Look for a less populated area in the shop and know this spot before you get there with your child. This will help if your child is experiencing sensory overload or is uncomfortable in any way.  

5. Bring a Sensory Toolkit 

A sensory kit can provide comfort while shopping. You could pack sensory items such as fidget toys, a favorite blanket, and headphones. The sensory kit can also help with self-regulation. Fidget spinners or soft toys can actually provide a comforting touch and promote a sense of security. 

6. Choose Stores Wisely 

Do some research on shops that prioritize inclusivity and understand the unique needs of autistic children. Look for stores that have a reputation for creating sensory-friendly environments. These environments could include softer lighting, well-organized spaces, and quieter atmospheres. Some stores have special carts for kids (and adults) with disabilities that help to contain them and keep them comfortable. 

7. Set Realistic Expectations

Realistic expectations are crucial for creating a positive experience. When you recognize that unexpected factors may influence your child’s behavior, you can be flexible in these situations and adjust accordingly. It is important to communicate with your child about the upcoming shopping trip: remember to use visual support or social stories to set expectations. Social stories are short descriptions of everyday situations that are depicted visually; you can run through them with your child before an activity or event in order to make it a less stressful experience for them. 

A good idea would be to break down the shopping excursion into manageable steps. If you’re open to embracing the possibility of minor challenges and seeing them as opportunities for growth, it could end up being a positive experience.  

8. Celebrate Small Victories

Be on the lookout for small victories that you can acknowledge and celebrate with your child and reinforce their efforts. This will establish a positive and supportive environment. Completing a shopping task should never be prioritized over your child’s well-being. Sometimes a successful trip to the store means getting one item and leaving on a positive note.  

9. Use Reinforcement and Praise 

Using positive reinforcement is an excellent way to make the shopping experience more pleasant for your child. Set small goals. Perhaps you could set a ten-minute timer and reward your child with a token after every ten minutes. They can then use their tokens to ‘buy’ something before you leave the store or exchange them for a reward when you get home. 

 
Don’t forget to praise your child when they do well at the store, too. This means that they feel comfortable in their environment, or they use healthy coping mechanisms that they have learned to get through the shopping experience. It’s important to remember that this can be an extremely overwhelming experience for them, so visual praise will go a long way to creating a more positive experience for you both. 

Lighthouse Autism Center

Dealing with autism overstimulation during a shopping trip requires a combination of understanding, preparation, and supportive strategies.  

Speaking to an autism specialist can guide you on the best choices to make for your autistic child. At Lighthouse Autism Center, we have programs such as Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy to assist both parents and their autistic children. Our autism tools for parents can help to relieve the stress that can come with shopping. 

Sensory items for Autism can have profound benefits for Autistic children, including enhancing motor skills and providing comfort and calamity. Here are some of the best sensory toys to purchase.

A Guide to Sensory Items for Autistic Children 

Welcome to this safe and informative space where you can delve into the world of sensory items for Autism. The American Psychiatric Association added sensory sensitivities to the list of symptoms that help diagnose Autism in 2013. If your child is dealing with sensory issues, you should strongly consider getting sensory toys for Autism for them to play with. Other sensory items, such as a sensory weighted blanket, can also prove to be beneficial. What are sensory toys? These toys and items are specifically designed to stimulate a child’s five senses: sound, touch, smell, taste, and sight. These could include sensory lights or different textures.  

How Do Sensory Toys Help Autism

Many Autistic children can experience sensory processing differences, which can lead to sensory sensitivities or seeking behaviors. By having these toys and noise-canceling headphones, it can help regulate sensory experiences. It provides Autistic children with the chance to control and comfort themselves in these sensory environments. Children can begin to relax, focus, and calm down in these sensory scenarios or events. These toys and items can further help develop social learning skills such as planning, negotiating, and sharing. It is important to be aware that different sensory toys can help enhance different sensory experiences and developmental skills in Autistic children. Introducing sensory items into daily life can prove to be phenomenally beneficial to your child. 

Understanding Different Types of Sensory Issues and Challenges

Autistic children can be over or under-reactive to sensory stimuli. There are two broad types of sensory challenges that Autistic children could experience, namely, hyper-sensitivity and hypo-sensitivity.  

Hypersensitivity

Hyper-sensitive children are overly responsive to stimulants. This is often referred to as “sensory overload.” Both extreme and regular stimuli, such as strong smells or bright lights, can make hyper-sensitive children feel overwhelmed.  

Hyposensitivity

Hypo-sensitive children are under-responsive to senses and stimulants. For example, a child might have a low sensitivity to pain. They could also be under-responsive to body signals that affect balance control and physical coordination. Sensory weighted blankets and strong-tasting or textured foods are great stimuli for hypo-sensitive children.  

What Are the Best Sensory Toys for Autism?

Here are 10 recommendations for what to buy an Autistic child.  

1. Sensory Balls

Parents can purchase sensory balls so that children can engage with  

multiple senses, and enhance fine and gross motor skills while providing a wonderful calming tactile experience. Rolling, squeezing, or bouncing sensory balls can help to improve grip strength and coordination. You can find sensory balls in various textures and sizes. 

2. A Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets can be good for Autism-related anxiety. Thanks to the even distribution of weight, these unique blankets help to stimulate the production of serotonin and can reduce cortisol.  

3. Chewable Jewelry 

Autistic children can satisfy their oral sensory needs, reducing the urge to chew unsafe objects. Parents can buy chewable necklaces and bracelets that are made from safe, non-toxic silicone materials that children can safely chew on. This jewelry is made in a variety of textures, from ridges, dots, and patterns, or they can be smooth too. 

4. Fidget Spinners

You’ve most likely come across fidget spinners, as they have become quite popular in recent years. Fidget spinners are great for keeping children’s hands occupied. These small handheld devices have rotating child-friendly blades that offer visual and tactile stimulation.  

5. Kinetic Sand

This moldable, sensory play material sticks to itself but not to surfaces. Kinetic sand offers a soothing tactile experience and helps to encourage imaginative play for all children. It provides a calming sensory outlet for Autistic children. The ability to bend, mold, squish and cut these substances encourages them to explore and create freely with their hands. 

6. Noise-Canceling Headphones 

Noise-canceling headphones have been proven to be incredibly effective for Autistic children. Being overwhelmed audibly can cripple Autistic children. Noise-canceling headphones can help create a much more pleasant and quieter auditory environment. These headphones are great to have in crowded settings such as airports, malls, and classrooms. 

7. Vibrating Pillow

The smoothing motion and calm sound help to calm your child. Research also shows that vibrating sensory toys can help improve verbal initiations and responses in children. The gentle vibrations provide a comforting sensation which helps them regulate their sensory experiences. 

Lighthouse Autism Center

These sensory items can provide tactile stimulation, enhance auditory processing, and encourage motor skill development. Sensory development plays an important role in helping Autistic children. These powerful allies offer great comfort, empowerment, and a pathway to self-expression for Autistic children. Autism tools for parents are vital to support you and the unique needs of your child and family. Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy is amongst the programs that can enhance better outcomes for children with Autism.  

*Please refer to a licensed practitioner prior to implementing any of the above suggestions.

Here are a few common questions that parents may have about autism. These questions and answers can help you with your autistic child. 

6 Questions and Answers for Parents of an Autistic Child

Hey there, parents! Do you have a range of questions about your child’s recent autism diagnosis? You’ve probably been searching far and wide for the necessary answers. Well, this article is a go-to guide with six questions many parents of autistic children may have. Consider this information as autism parent support, where all the knowledge is provided to you. 

1. How can I ease medical appointments for my child with autism?

There are several things parents can do to make these necessary visits as easy as possible. Simple things such as buying play stethoscopes or creating picture books can go a long way. If you own an iPad or iPhone, you guessed it: “There’s an app for that,” it is called iPrompts, a visual program for autistic people. 

Walk your child through what is going to happen at the visit so they understand what to expect before getting there. The same is true for dental visits. It may take multiple visits before your child will actually sit in the dentist’s chair, but you can help them get comfortable enough to tolerate most of these visits. You can also talk to your child’s doctor or dentist about extending the time of visits so you child can adjust to the setting and people.  

2. How can I tell when something is hurting my child when they’re nonverbal?

According to Rebecca Landa, the director of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders at the Kennedy Krieger Institute located in Baltimore, “We know that autism is a multisystem disorder. When it’s not evident that there’s a certain body system not working as it should, we have to look to other indicators. Any time there’s an alteration in a child’s behavioral pattern, this could tell us something we need to be paying attention to medically.” This is why it’s important to know if your doctor works with other autistic patients. In the case of nonverbal autism symptoms, doctors can adopt a personalized and holistic approach to ensure the child’s comfort during these visits. 

3. With so many support groups out there, how do I know which one to join?

Autism resources for parents are definitely available. Your doctor should at least know of a few nearby support groups to recommend. The key to joining a support group of any type is to make sure you are joining a group of people who have accepted the issue (in this case, the diagnosis of autism) and are making an effort to move forward. The goal of a support group is to do just that: offer support and different perspectives on how to handle issues as they happen. You want to be able to get insight from parents who have been where you are so that they can offer tips on how to get through the phase you are in. Autism tools for parents can ensure you are equipped with the necessary information and know the correct places to seek guidance. 

Support groups and support networks are important. Your doctor should be able to offer you a list of local support groups. 

4. How can I learn all I can about autism to help my child, and what are some trusted sources?

While it’s impossible for any individual to know about all the content on the internet or have a list of every reliable source out there, there are a few credible sources your doctor should be able to direct you to. These reliable sources will undoubtedly lead you to other trusted sites. Programs such as virtual training for parents can ultimately guide you to reputable people and institutions.  

The most reliable websites are those that are government sites or educational sites. For example, PubMed Health and Autism Society are credible sites that offer resources to parents and people with autism. 

5. How can I keep everyone involved in my child’s care on the same page?

Communication and collaboration is essential because it is a team effort when it comes to making sure that the therapists, doctors, and educators are all working together. Some websites allow parents to set up an account and have the doctors, therapists, teachers, and caregivers all log on to talk about the child. You can also keep a journal. You can ask one of the persons involved to be the “case manager,” but make sure you choose someone who understands your child’s condition and treatment plan and is respected by the other people on the “team.” Most professionals have their own ethical obligations, depending on their specific speciality area, that require them to collaborate with other clinicians who work with the same child.  

6. How do I help my other children understand their autistic sibling?

Your doctor should encourage you to have your child’s siblings participate in the therapy sessions if appropriate, or atleast understand the types of therapy their sibling is in and what they are working on. Sometimes, resentment or anger can build because other children do not understand the behavior of autism in siblings. One way that you can help all of your children is to seek out therapy that involves all of your kids. It is important to include your other children, but not force them to participate. Taking the time to explain autism to their siblings will help your other children understand that their siblings’ differences are a natural part of their personality. It will help promote acceptance and lessen confusion. Your autistic child will also be able to learn appropriate social cues through the example of their siblings, and it helps your other children feel as though they are a part of the child’s care. 

Lighthouse Autism Center

When it comes to autism and parenting, Lighthouse Autism Center provides the highest quality ABA therapy services to ensure your child gets the best possible care. Find out about the Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy and more to help your child. 

Board Certified Behavior Analysts play an important role in supporting Autistic children and their families as they learn to navigate the world.

What is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst?

In the complex world of behavioral science and Autism, the role of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) definitely stands as a beacon of expertise and positive transformation. In this article, you will get to demystify the definition of a BCBA and shed light on the comprehensive skill set and ethical considerations that need to be adhered to. 

Defining the Role of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst

When it comes to Autism, and more specifically, ABA therapy, you often hear many acronyms for various individuals, procedures, and protocols. Today, we are talking about BCBA’s, or, Board Certified Behavior Analysts. If your child receives ABA therapy, you should have worked with a BCBA, or if you are in the field of behavioral health services, you may have encountered BCBAs.   

What makes someone a BCBA?

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst is an individual who has received their master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or equivalent program, has clinically supervised experience working in the field of behavior analysis, and has passed the BCBA certification exam. They are highly trained individuals who are considered experts in the field of behavior analysis. BCBA’s are also required to participate in ongoing continuing education training throughout their careers. Most states now require that all BCBA’s are licensed by the state to practice.  

What Do Board Certified Behavior Analysts Do?

During your research on Autism, you may have come across and wondered, what does a BCBA do exactly? If your child attends an ABA center or receives ABA therapy, their program has been written and is overseen by a BCBA. They are able to assess children who already have an Autism diagnosis and determine what programs will help your child learn new skills, refine previously learned skills, and navigate problem behaviors. These plans are individualized and unique to each learner and family. 

BCBA’s at Lighthouse Autism Center

At Lighthouse Autism Center, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts are full-time, virtual and center-based individuals who are highly involved in the day-to-day activities of our centers. They have small caseloads, so they are able to spend time each week with every single child they oversee programming for, ensure ongoing training of 1:1 therapists, as well as consistently review and update programs to ensure children are achieving the best possible outcomes. 

BCBA’s at Lighthouse Autism Center are invested in the success of each child and want to help them achieve the best quality of life. They are hands-on and encourage parents to be heavily involved in goal-setting for their children. They also work with parents to give them the tools to follow through with therapy at home and increase their preparedness to help their children if they are experiencing problem behavior. They will also review a child’s progress every few weeks with parents and caregivers to keep them informed and provide an opportunity to discuss any new programs a parent might want to see for their child. 

Your BCBA will work with your child’s Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) as well as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in Lighthouse Autism Center’s unique co-treat sessions, called Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy. This is an innovative approach to Autism therapy that fuses the best practices of ABA and speech therapy into a one-of-a-kind clinical model that delivers better outcomes for children with Autism. Lighthouse Fusion is designed by a team of dually certified clinicians, some of only a handful in the world. 

Now that you know what BCBA stands for, you can learn more about Board Certified Behavior Analysts by visiting the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. 

Discover the value of speech therapy for autistic children as we explore how this essential treatment addresses developmental issues like speech delays and abnormal or repetitive speech patterns and answer some commonly asked questions. 

The Benefits of Speech Therapy for Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction skills. It can also cause delays in speech and language development, making it difficult for autistic children to express themselves effectively. This is where speech therapy comes in. 

Also known as speech and language therapy, this treatment focuses on improving language development and communication skills in individuals with speech disorders. There are a number of key resources and services available for the healthy development of autistic children, with speech therapy playing an integral role. 

Stages of speech development in autism

Autism often affects the natural progression of speech development in children. Unlike allistic children, autistic children might exhibit significant delays in speech, abnormal speech patterns, or even lack of speech. 

Stage 1: Non-verbal communication

The first stage often involves non-verbal communication. Children may communicate through gestures, facial expressions, or physical contact. Speech therapists help these children understand and use these forms of communication effectively.  

Stage 2: Basic language skills

Autistic children may exhibit significant delays in vocal speech, abnormal speech patterns, or lack the ability to communicate vocally at all.  

Stage 3: Vocabulary building

From there, therapists work on enhancing vocabulary and sentence construction, allowing the child to express complex thoughts and ideas.  

Stage 4. Conversational skills

The final stage focuses on conversational skills, teaching children how to engage in back-and-forth communication with others. This helps autistic children connect more effectively with their peers and the world around them. 

Parents often ask how many hours of speech therapy are needed for autism. The answer can vary greatly depending on the child’s unique needs, the severity of their speech delay, and their level of engagement with therapy. However, many experts recommend that intensive, consistent therapy — often several hours per week — can be most beneficial. Regular interaction with a speech therapist can significantly enhance your child’s communication skills over time. Even so, parent involvement and reinforcement of these skills at home are crucial for long-term success. 

How does speech therapy help autism?

Speech therapy is a specialized field that focuses on evaluating, diagnosing, and treating communication disorders, both in verbal and non-verbal forms. In the context of autism, speech therapy primarily aims at addressing issues related to speech delay, restricted speech patterns, and repetitive speech that are commonly observed in autistic individuals. 

1. Addressing autism speech delay

One of the most common challenges for many autistic children is speech delay. This means that they may not develop speech and language skills at the same rate as their peers, or they may not develop them at all. Speech therapy can help address this delay by introducing strategies and techniques that promote language development. 

Speech therapists work closely with these children to understand their communication needs and create individualized treatment plans. They use a variety of methods, such as visual aids, sign language, and play-based activities, to help children improve their communication skills. 

2. Improving autism speech patterns

In addition to delays, autistic children may also have difficulties with speech patterns. This can include repetitive or unusual speech patterns, such as echolalia (repeating words or phrases) or pronoun reversal (using “you” instead of “I”). 

Speech therapy can assist children in developing more functional speech patterns. Here, they are taught how to use language effectively in different contexts, such as social interactions or daily routines. Speech therapists also work on improving the clarity and articulation of speech to make it easier for them to communicate their thoughts effectively. 

3. Addressing autism and repetitive speech

Repetitive speech is another common characteristic of autism. This can include constantly repeating the same words or phrases or having a narrow range of topics that they talk about. 

Speech therapy can help autistic children expand their vocabulary and use language in more meaningful ways. Therapists may also introduce techniques such as structured play and social stories to teach children how to engage in conversations and stay on topic. 

The overall benefits of speech therapy for autism

Speech therapy can have a significant impact on the development and well-being of autistic individuals. By improving their communication skills, speech therapy further helps in reducing frustration that stems from any difficulty in expressing their needs. Additionally, speech therapy can help improve social skills and interactions, as communication is a key component of building relationships. 

Learn more with Lighthouse Autism Center

Speech therapists, or speech-language pathologists, employ a range of techniques and interventions to enhance your child’s ability to communicate effectively. In Lighthouse Fusion ABA therapy, these interventions are tailored to your child’s individual needs and abilities and can include improving articulation, expanding vocabulary, enhancing auditory processing abilities, and fostering appropriate use of non-verbal communication cues.  

Contact us to discuss your child’s needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. 

We take a look at some of the first steps to take after your child is diagnosed with autism.

My Child Was Just Diagnosed with Autism. What Do I Do First?

The first few moments after your child gets an autism spectrum diagnosis can be daunting and overwhelming. For some parents or caregivers, the autism diagnosis comes as a complete shock, while other parents may feel relieved as they’ve suspected it for some time.  

However, one thing that almost all parents or caregivers have in common is that they aren’t sure what to do after an autism diagnosis. It’s completely normal to question what the future looks like and to be unsure about what to do in the immediate days following the diagnosis.  

We understand that the moments after the diagnosis can be difficult, but we’re here to help guide you through the next steps. We’ll take a look at what the diagnosis means and what you should do following your child’s autism diagnosis. 

What does an autism diagnosis mean? 

So, your child has been diagnosed with autism, what does this mean? Does an autism diagnosis change anything? 

Of course, confirmation that your child is autistic can be frightening. It’s normal to be nervous and a little apprehensive. However, it’s important to remember that there is nothing different about your child after the diagnosis. Your child has not changed. 

 
What has changed is your understanding of their needs and how to meet them. One of the biggest benefits of an autism diagnosis is that this new information informs how you can support your child to ensure the best possible future for them. 

So, what happens after the autism diagnosis? You now have the opportunity to learn more about autism, how it impacts your child, and what you can do to make their daily lives easier and more fulfilling. A diagnosis also means that you should have access to professional support and benefits. 

Steps to take after the diagnosis

The first important steps to take immediately after the diagnosis are as follows: 

Ask questions and educate yourself

The best thing that you can do immediately after your child is diagnosed with autism is to educate yourself as much as possible about the disorder. Start while you are with the medical professional (whether that’s your GP or someone else) who has given you the diagnosis. They have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to autism, and you should ask them any questions that you might have or bring up any concerns. They will be able to answer you with expert knowledge and provide you with resources to do more research. 

Once you’re home, it’s important to find more trusted autism resources online that enable you to learn as much about the disorder as you can.  

Educating yourself about autism and how it affects your child is an essential step in learning how to create an environment and find the right support for your child that will help them thrive. 

Equip your home environment to help your child

Now that you know your child is autistic, you can ensure that your home environment is set up in such a way that it encourages them to learn new life skills while making it feel safe and secure for them. 

Every child is unique, which means that each will have their own way in how autism presents — so how you prepare your home will depend on their individual capabilities. However, there are some symptoms, such as fixations, sensorial sensitivities, and verbal learning difficulties, that are present in many autistic children. Some of the best ways to make your home safe for an autistic child include: 

• Ensuring that they have a dedicated quiet room. 
• Putting all medications and dangerous items far out of reach. 
• Labelling everyday items so they know what they are and where they belong. 
• Using visual labels around the house to warn them about dangers, such as a sign with a red X saying “NO” at the door that leads to the garage. 
• Creating visual boundaries for where they can and can’t go. 
• Ensuring that all furniture is mounted to the floor or wall.  
• Use of a visual schedule to help with daily routines. 
• The use of gates or barriers at the top and bottom of stairs. 

Of course, these are just a few of the considerations for your home environment, and there are many more that you can put in place to make your child’s life easier. 

Find out about support for your child and your family

Now that you have sorted out your home environment, you need to support them in other areas of their life to maximize their potential. This is essential for autistic children, who will benefit from having the right support from an early age. An early diagnosis of autism allows you to find autism-specific support systems across different areas. 

At school

If your child is at school already, then it’s important that you inform the school of the diagnosis. You can then get an assessment for an Individual Education Program (IEP). Speak to the school about what support they can provide. Teachers will then be aware of the situation and the care that they need to give your child going forward. Or, you may have to find a school that is better suited to your child’s needs. 

Financial support

Find out what kind of financial support you qualify for after the diagnosis. You could be eligible for something like the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit, which will help with extra expenses.  

Family support

Remember that this diagnosis impacts the whole family. It’s easy to become absorbed in getting the right care for your child, but don’t forget about yourself, your partner, or any siblings. Ensure you spend time with other family members and that siblings understand what is happening if they are old enough. Ask them about any questions or concerns, and try to answer them as honestly as you can. Seek out family therapy for extra support if needed. 

Find the right therapy program

One of the most important steps after an autism diagnosis is getting your child into therapy as soon as possible. Your GP is likely to recommend a particular medical professional or practice but don’t be afraid to do your own research, too. 

The right therapy program will change your child’s life. Experienced therapists will equip you and your child with the tools and life skills to navigate the challenges of autism successfully. 

LAC is here to help you take the first steps after diagnosis 

We know that an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming, but with the right tools, resources, and therapy, there’s no reason that your child’s future shouldn’t be an incredibly positive one. 

ABA therapy is gaining traction in the industry, and at Lighthouse Autism Center, we combine it with speech therapy in our Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy approach. This enhanced therapy has been designed to get the best results for your child, ensuring that they have a bright and happy future ahead of them. 

Autism affects the individual, the family, and the community at large. Understanding these impacts can aid in creating an inclusive society for everyone. Discover resources and tips on the role of the community with autistic children.

Tips for Community Interactions With Autistic Children

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may struggle with building relationships and interacting in social situations. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t want to engage or connect with others. In reality, it is crucial for children with ASD to have meaningful interactions and connections with their family, peers, and the community. 

In this article, we’re discussing some tips for communities of autistic children to better interact with them. Parents already work hard to assist their children’s development, with solutions like Lighthouse Fusion ABA therapy and community support, they can further enhance their efforts and increase quality of life for all those affected. 

How does autism affect the community?

Autism affects the individual, the family, and the community at large. Understanding these impacts can aid in creating an inclusive society for everyone. A key concern often revolves around autism and safety in the community. Autistic children may unknowingly place themselves in dangerous situations due to their difficulties with social awareness, without having the tools to effectively communicate their needs or situation and get the help they may require. This can lead to heightened anxiety for parents, caregivers, and community members. 

With adequate knowledge and proactive strategies, the community can play a pivotal role in promoting safety and inclusivity for autistic individuals. This includes implementing procedures to locate wandering children quickly and educating community members about autism and potential safety risks. It’s important to remember that every autistic individual is unique, and a safe, supportive community can significantly enhance their quality of life. 

How to interact with autistic children 

Addressing autism in a community can offer support to both autistic children and their parents while expanding the skills and worldview of community members for a safer, more inclusive environment for all. Community autism resources are a good place to start — online resources, books, and gatherings should all be widely available and encouraged. 

Below, we discuss tips for both community members and parents. But first, there are some important things all people should know in order to have healthy, fulfilling interactions with people with ASD. 

• It is essential to note that autistic children might have difficulty interpreting non-verbal cues and may not respond to facial expressions like smiles or frowns. 
• Their literal perception of language means that you must be precise when speaking to them. For instance, if you’re urging them to hurry by saying, “Step on it,” they might become confused, wondering what they’re supposed to step on. Be precise and keep conversations focused and simple. 
• Handling a single thought or idea at a time could be their maximum capacity, especially in unfamiliar or chaotic situations, requiring conversations to be focused and straightforward.  
• They may show intense interest in a particular topic, discussing it repetitively. 
• They may perceive their surroundings differently, being acutely sensitive to sounds, tastes, touches, smells, and sights that you might not notice, which could cause them discomfort. 

Tips for community members

Community members can assist with encouraging inclusivity by implementing some basic courtesy behaviors around autistic kids. 

Speak clearly and use simple language 

Autistic children often process information differently. When communicating with them, use clear, concise, and straightforward language. Avoid metaphors, idioms, or complex sentences that might be confusing. 

Respect their space

Many autistic children have sensory sensitivities and may become overwhelmed in crowded or noisy environments. Like all children, some autistic children may not want to be touched at all, while others may require a lot of care and affection. Respect their personal space and avoid touching them without their consent. 

Encourage interaction through shared interests

Identify the child’s interests and use them as a way to engage in interaction. Whether it’s a favorite book, a love for trains, or a passion for a particular TV show, shared interests can provide common ground for communication and connection. Physical play, such as running around and playing outside, can also be a great way to interact, tending to their limited attention span and helping them feel more calm and at ease. 

Be patient and give them time to respond

Autistic children often need more time to process information and formulate responses. Therefore, be patient, give them time, and do not rush them to respond. Regular pauses, as well as slowing down your speech to match theirs, are helpful. 

Practice active listening 

Show that you’re interested and that you value their communication by giving eye contact and responding appropriately. While autistic children can have trouble expressing their feelings, they still need to know that you are interested and that you care. Attentive listening and positive reinforcement can help them feel understood and supported. 

Tips for parents 

As a parent, you can also introduce various practices to enhance your relationship with your autistic child. 

Use visual aids 

Visual aids can be highly effective in helping autistic children understand and communicate their thoughts and feelings. These can take the form of pictures, symbols, or even physical objects. Visual schedules and social stories, for instance, can help a child understand what will happen next and thereby reduce their anxiety. 

Cultivate constructive expression of anger 

Teach your autistic child to express their anger in non-aggressive ways. It’s important they understand that it’s okay to let out feelings of anger and frustration. Though this can be difficult, there are several types of inventions that can help with teaching new and more socially accepted forms of communication.  

Exhibit persistence and resilience 

Maintain your resolve and resilience. If your child does not react in the way you had hoped, avoid getting your feelings hurt. Remember, autistic children can struggle with expressing and controlling their emotions. Their responses can come off as blunt, but it’s essential not to take it personally. 

Learn from your child

Embrace the unique perspective your child brings. Their special needs and abilities might offer a new way to look at the world. As challenging as it might be at times, creating a relaxed, humorous, and appreciative environment in which you celebrate your child will result in a healthy, nourishing, growth-oriented environment for everyone involved. 

Practice self-care

Join parent support groups or ask understanding friends and relatives to care for your child while you rest and recharge. School psychologists and counselors also offer resources that can help. When your needs have been taken care of, you are able to be fully present and care for your child in the ways that they need. 

Join Lighthouse Autism Center in creating caring autism communities

It’s important to remember that every child is unique, and what works well for one may not work for another. As such, approach each child as an individual, adapt as necessary, and always strive to foster a respectful and understanding environment. For more community resources for autism, check out our autism resources and services. 

We take a look at the benefits of a simple routine for autistic children and how to create a straightforward schedule for a higher chance of success.

The Benefits of Simplifying: Creating a Routine for Autistic Children 

Routines are important in everyone’s daily life. They help us to stay organized and complete essential tasks. Daily routines are useful for all children, but they are especially important to help children with the challenges of autism in everyday life. 

Establishing solid, simple routines at home and at school can help reduce stress for parents, caregivers, and children. They also help to teach and establish different life skills.  

We’re going to take a look at autism and routine and how to build a simple schedule for your autistic child that will bring stability and calm to their everyday life. 

Why is routine so important for autism? 

Do autistic people like routine? Yes. Routines bring a level of comfort and stability to everyday activities that, otherwise, could be overwhelming. Consistency and predictability are valuable tools for an autistic child. Repetitive patterns reinforce positive behaviors and important life skills. 

Here are some of the more obvious benefits of developing a simple schedule for an autistic child. 

Reduces stress

Routine is a stress reliever for everyone — knowing what is expected of you at a certain time makes things more predictable. Autistic children can be overwhelmed easily, and routines help them to become familiar with their surroundings and expectations. They also help to improve confidence that they can achieve the tasks ahead of them. 

Assists with transitions 

Many autistic children simply don’t like change, and what can be extremely exciting for other children could be extremely stressful for an autistic child. Putting a routine in place before a transition helps children to get used to their new environment and expectations. 

Nurtures a learning environment

While allistic children might easily retain information when learning new daily living skills, autism makes it difficult to remember and repeat skills straight away. For kids on the spectrum of autism, a schedule can help them practice and remember new things. 

Gives them a sense of ownership over their day 

It’s frustrating when you can’t explain what you want or achieve something that you’ve set out to do, and autistic children experience this daily. Establishing a routine helps to give them a sense of ownership over their day, especially when they get to a level of independence where they can take on some of the tasks on their own or make their own schedule. 

Builds stronger connections

Autistic children can struggle to connect with parents, teachers, caregivers, and friends. However, as their sense of purpose, fulfillment, predictability, and security increases, their stress and anxiety decrease. This can make them more receptive and able to connect with others. 

Creating a schedule for your child

Before you begin, it’s important to remember that simplicity is key. Your child is not going to follow or learn from an overtly complicated routine. So, strip it back and create a straightforward, easy-to-follow routine using the following steps. 

Identify the most important tasks in their daily routine 

A successful schedule is a simple one. Outline the tasks that you classify as the most important for your child to complete during the day. Write them down. Start with just a few at the beginning, and you can always add more once they’ve mastered it.  

One of the common challenges of autism is difficulty following instructions, so ensure that all of the steps are predictable and specific.  

First, give the task a name, and then break that into smaller, more manageable instructions for your child. For example, the bigger task could be “Get ready for bed”, and you can break it down into smaller steps such as: 

• Get into pajamas 
• Brush teeth 
• Listen to one bedtime story 
• Turn off the light 

 
Be patient and figure out what format works best for your child. 

Assign times and alerts

To ensure that the routine is predictable and on schedule, it’s important to assign every activity a time and preferably an alert that will remind you and your child. Alerts can help to diminish the monotony of a schedule. You can use fun alerts, such as animal noises, on your phone and assign a different alert to each task. This gives your child the chance to recognize what the alert is signifying and either tell you what needs to be done or attempt the task on their own if they are ready and capable. 

Make it visual 

Simply writing down the tasks and steps isn’t enough. In many cases, autistic children learn and respond best to visual cues. So, it’s essential that you make your schedule more than a simple list. Take pictures of your child doing the tasks, or print a picture of the task and put it next to the instructions on the schedule. 

Refer to the schedule throughout the day

Don’t expect your child to remember what they are going to do at the end of the day. Instead, refer to the calendar throughout the day and remind your child of what is going to happen next. For example, remind them while they are crafting that they are expected to clean up their craft materials once they are done. 

Use positive reinforcement

Everyone could use a bit of positive reinforcement, and you should let your child know how well they are doing when they get a task done successfully. Of course, how you do this depends on your child’s individual nature, but putting gold stars next to a task on your visual schedule or something similar is a great idea. Do whatever it is to let them understand that you are proud of them. 

Patience and persistence

The first couple of days with a new schedule can be challenging for both of you. Consistency is key in the beginning, and you need to ensure that you tick off all the steps in order. Repeat the routine in the same way every day and remain patient. It’s all worth it once your child starts to get the hang of it. 

Once the routine is firmly established, you can start to alter things a little bit at a time. Try to involve another family member or caregiver in the routine, or slowly introduce an additional step if you would like. As much as a consistent routine is important, it’s also a good idea to get them used to change and transition while they are comfortable, as this will be a valuable tool for the future. 

Learn about routines, schedules, handling change, and more with LAC

Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy is an innovative approach that combines the best ABA therapy practices with speech therapy to create a unique model that delivers exceptional outcomes for autistic children. With our decades of experience in the industry and a wide array of autism resources that are available to you, we aim to equip you and your child with the right tools to tackle everyday activities that will set them up for a better future. 

Any change of season brings changes, but fall is particularly transitional. We take a look at some of the activities that can help autistic children adapt to these changes.

Fall Activities for Autistic Children 

While each season brings big changes, fall is possibly the standout one in this respect, with a big seasonal shift and the start of a new school year.  

Many children (and adults) love fall. There’s the change from summer colors to oranges and reds, and tangerine-tinted leaves start to line the floor. Hot summer days make way for a fresh bite in the air, signaling the change to a new wardrobe. Of course, it means Halloween is just around the corner, too.  

Where fall is an exciting prospect for allistic kids, the big changes can be stressful and overwhelming for autistic kids. However, with the right planning and sensory activities, autism doesn’t need to stand in the way of your child enjoying the seasonal change. 

Let’s look at why seasonal shifts are challenging for autistic children, as well as the autism-friendly activities that you can use to make the transition less stressful. 

How seasonal shifts affect autistic children 

Autistic children thrive with a predictable routine, schedule, and timetable. Seasonal shifts can be stressful because they signal change. Fall, in particular, can be an overwhelming transition for several factors. 

End of summer holidays

Summer holidays are long, and children get used to their holiday routines. Returning to school means changing and adjusting to a new set of expectations, schedules, and routines. 

New school year

The new school year starts in September, which could mean big changes for your child: a new classroom environment, a new teacher, some new classmates, unfamiliar routines and subjects, and more. 

Wardrobe changes 

Autistic children can become attached to a certain piece of clothing, whether that’s because of the color or how the texture feels against their skin, etc. Falls means that there’s a wardrobe change, which could mean giving up a piece of summer clothing they aren’t willing to let go of. 

Weather and outdoor changes

While it’s not an overnight change, fall does signal that winter is imminent, and depending on where you live, this could mean waking up in the dark, snow days, and more. All of this can be upsetting for an autistic child in a set routine. 

Fall activities for autistic children 

The change of season can have many positive impacts and opportunities for your child to have new experiences. By using learned skills and tools and with your support, these transitions can be beneficial for them if planned for correctly. 

These are just some of the fall kids’ activities that you can plan for to make the seasonal transition easier for your child.  

Create a fall sensory bin

A sensory bin is a wonderful tool and is an essential autism activity throughout the year. Fill the sensory bin with a range of fall-related objects like dried corn, chestnuts, gourds, pinecones, etc. Then, allow your child to run their hands through these items and pick each one up to feel their texture.  

This is an excellent sensory activity that is hands-on and can benefit a range of other developmental domains. Use cups, spoons, or tweezers to pick things up to develop fine motor skills, separate objects into colors for color identification, or simply leave them to explore and hone their independent play skills. 

Visit a pumpkin patch 

Autumn is synonymous with pumpkins, and while it’s simpler to buy a pumpkin from the grocery store to carve at home, it doesn’t beat the experience of going to an actual pumpkin patch. If your child is sensitive to sensory stimulation or struggles with crowds, then try and find a small street-side display on a quiet day. However, if you’re comfortable taking your child to a farm, they could get the full experience of a petting zoo, corn mazes, tractor rides, and more.  

Talk to your child at home about what kind of pumpkin you want to bring home. Discuss the various shapes, sizes, and color options they will see. Then, let them choose their own pumpkin (or two) to take home. 

Carve a pumpkin at home 

Carving a pumpkin is one of the classic fall activities for kids. It’s also full of beneficial sensory experiences.  

Allow your child to pick out the design that they want to carve out with you and then take note of the different sensory experiences on the way. Ask your child to feel the smooth skin of the outside of the pumpkin and then the slimy texture of the flesh inside. The squishy nature of the strings around the hard seeds is always an exciting find. Also, engage their sense of smell. You could extend this by baking a pumpkin pie or something similar afterward so that they can use their taste buds, too. 

Bake seasonal treats 

Children love to be involved in baking activities, and it’s a wonderful way to engage a variety of different skills. Of course, you should probably expect a mess, and the end result might not win any bake-off awards, but it’s the experience with your child that really counts. 

Show them what you want to make, whether that’s pumpkin muffins, an apple pie, or Halloween-shaped cookies. Allow them to help you pour and stir mixtures, and perhaps they can even try portioning or measuring out the simple ingredients, such as a cup of flour.  

There’s nothing quite like watching their eyes light up when they get to tuck into something that they’ve made themselves. It also practices turn-taking, following directions, and fine motor skills. 

Fall themed arts and crafts

There are abundant opportunities for fall-themed arts and crafts for autistic kids. When deciding on what to do, it’s essential to consider your child’s abilities, needs, and interests. The best autism arts and crafts incorporate independent play, creativity, color and identification, following directions, fine motor skills, and much more. 

Support your child while they create by providing demonstrations, visual cues, gestures, and clear verbal instructions. Consider activities such as putting paint on cut apples or fallen leaves to create fall-themed stamps. Place dried or fresh leaves under a light piece of paper like tracing paper, and use crayons or oil pastels to go over and see its outline. 

Spend time outdoors

Spending time outdoors is beneficial for every child, and the onset of fall offers a wonderful opportunity to take note of seasonal changes. Of course, this is extra effective if you live somewhere where the seasonal changes can be quite evident. 

A great way to get your child excited about going out on a trail or simply into the garden is by going on a fall-themed treasure hunt. Write a list and create visuals of different fall objects that you want to collect while you’re outside, such as a pinecone, an orange leaf, a yellow leaf, an acorn, etc. Then, set out on a mission with your child to gather them all up. 

Afterward, you can create another great outdoor experience by getting them to help you rake up a pile of leaves for you both to play in. The texture, sound, and color of the leaves are bound to delight both you and your child. 

With planning and support, changes can be beneficial for autistic children

Autistic children are resistant to change, but with the right support and preparation, transitions don’t need to be traumatic.  

Programs like the Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy are geared around preparing you and your child for changes like this. We use our expertise to equip you with essential tools and autism resources that you can use to ensure that your child can benefit from the experience by using their skills to adapt and prepare for, rather than react to, transitions and changes. 

Visiting the doctor or dentist can be overwhelming for autistic children, especially those with sensory difficulties. We discuss choosing the right healthcare practitioner and how to prepare your child for their trip. 

Tips for Taking Your Child to the Doctor’s Office or Dental Office

Going to see a healthcare professional can be a frightening experience for any child. Often, negative experiences in the past in any medical setting can set the tone for future visits, and it’s not unusual for children (and adults) to have fear and anxiety around going to see the doctor or dentist. 

Having an autistic child further complicates the matter. Dentists, doctors, and autism are rarely a match made in heaven. However, with the right preparations in place and healthcare professionals who are experienced with autism, a dentist visit or doctor visit can be successful and less traumatic. 

Let’s take a look at why autism and doctor’s visits or going to the dentist can be overwhelming and how you can prepare your child for these visits. We’ll also discuss how to choose the right doctors and dentists to ensure your child gets the necessary healthcare without the stress that usually comes with it. 

What makes healthcare visits so difficult for autistic children?

While going to the doctor or dentist isn’t any child’s favorite activity, it can be completely overwhelming and traumatic for autistic children, and this makes it difficult for parents and caregivers, too. 

Here are some of the more common aspects that make a visit to the doctor or dentist difficult for autistic children. 

Sensory sensitivities

One of the most problematic areas that makes healthcare visits challenging is the unique sensory issues that most autistic children have. Everyday sensations can be overwhelming and uncomfortable, and this is merely exacerbated at the doctor or dentist. 

Autism and the dentist rarely gel. Dental environments usually have big bright lights, high-pitched sounds of drills and suction machines, the sharp taste of fluoride, and more. Doctors’ offices are filled with chatter in the waiting room, the coldness of the stethoscope against the skin, bright lights shining into eyes, and wooden sticks on tongues. 

All of this can be extremely triggering for an autistic child. 

Difficulty adapting to change 

Autistic children thrive with predictability and routines. A visit to a healthcare provider throws their daily routine out. To add complexity, the doctor or dentist could be new, which means a new environment, person, and possibly procedure in the mix. Additionally, no wait time is guaranteed, so excessively time waiting without activity can compound the already stressful situation.  

Challenges with communication 

Some autistic children have trouble communicating how they feel and what they need, want, or dislike. Many healthcare professionals rely on patient feedback to adjust their approach and will ask if something is uncomfortable or hurting so that they can try something different. This can cause unnecessary distress for the patient, parent, and healthcare professional. 

Many of these appointments also require patients to follow instructions, such as “open wide,” “follow the light,” “bite down,” and so on. Autistic children may have trouble understanding instructions and need more time to process and respond to them. 

The importance of choosing the right healthcare practitioner 

One of the most important components of a successful trip to a healthcare provider is finding the right one for your child. Make sure that you do your research to find an autism-friendly dentist or doctor who advertises specifically for special needs patients. 

How to talk to your doctors about autism? Just be honest. Don’t feel bad to ask to meet the doctor or dentist beforehand to ask them any questions you have and assess their experience with children with sensory sensitivities. Ask about their process and how they usually help to make the interaction with autistic children less traumatic. 

Ask whether they will allow you to do a desensitization tour for your child before their appointment; the best doctor or dentist for autistic kids will have no problem with this. See whether they are willing to examine your child in the waiting room if they don’t want to go into the practice room. 

As a parent or caregiver, your instincts should be able to point you in the right direction, and you’ll be able to judge in person whether a professional and the offices themselves are suited to your child. 

It’s also important to book an appointment slot that will require as little waiting time as possible. This is normally the day’s first appointment, the first after lunch, or the very last of the day. 

How to prepare your child for their visit to the doctor or dentist

Here are some of the most effective ways that you can prepare your child for their visit. 

Familiarize them with the space

Prior to your child’s appointment, it is important to familiarize them with the space they will be visiting. Show them pictures of the doctor’s office or the dental clinic and children at their appointment. This shows them what to expect. If possible, it’s worth visiting the premises beforehand, meeting the staff, and getting your child familiar with the space and the people. 

Use visual schedules and tell stories 

Your child is used to their routine, and breaking this pattern can be challenging. However, using a visual schedule and social stories will help prepare them. This simple practice includes a detailed, step-by-step explanation of what they can expect from when they leave home until they return. Remember to use clear, concise language or pictures to get this across. Repeat the story regularly in the build-up to the appointment. 

Play dentist or doctor at home 

Play is one of the best ways for children to learn, and demonstration is particularly important for autistic children. Play dentist with your child. Put on some gloves and touch their teeth with your hands or a toothbrush and get them used to the sensation of having someone touching their mouth. 

Invest in a medical play set and practice getting your child used to the stethoscope against their skin, a light in their eyes, and a tongue depressor (or popsicle stick) on their tongue, etc. 

Play is one of the most effective ways to create familiarity with the process. 

On the day

The day of the appointment is here, and you’ve prepared your child as much as you can, so what now? First, it’s important to remind your child of the plans for the day as early as possible and repeat the visual story of what they should expect. 

Pack essential sensory items that your child might need or want, such as noise-canceling headphones and sunglasses. Take their favorite toy, blanket, and book with them, too. Keeping them entertained while they wait is important. 

Keep in mind that you shouldn’t force your child to do anything if they don’t want to. While healthcare is crucial, sometimes you might need to try on another day. If your child gets incredibly anxious and wound up in the waiting room and refuses to go into the medical rooms, then it’s worth seeing if they can be seen in the waiting room or booking an appointment for another day.  

Remember, you don’t want this to be traumatic, as it could impact future visits. 

At LAC, we prepare your child for these important interactions

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we know that planning for changes in your child’s life is crucial, and visits to healthcare providers are often challenging. That’s why we help you navigate these delicate processes and equip you and your child with the tools they need for these interactions. 

Our innovative programs like Lighthouse Fusion ABA Therapy and the wide array of autism resources on the website are among the best ways to give your child the future they deserve.